Saw that Peter Gammons was just on ESPN radio saying the Indians are exploring a Westbrook trade. Apparently, the Indians have tried to contact his agent about a new deal, but Westy wants to test the FA market next year. As a result, the Indians are now exploring the trade market for him.

Looks like the rumors of Westbrook being on the block the past few days are true. And, given the fact he doesn't want to talk extension and wants to test FA next year (IOW, get PAID), I think the Indians use him this offseason as a valuable trading chip. He's gone.

Though Hendry insists the relatively minor deal was not the warmup act to a splashier trade, it does beef up the Cubs' bullpen, giving them three lefties in Cotts, Will Ohman and Scott Eyre. That could put the Cubs in a better bargaining position to deal with the Cleveland Indians, who are dangling right-handed starter Jake Westbrook.

The Indians, who might be ready to put young right-hander Fausto Carmona in their rotation, are in search of relief help and a shortstop -- Ronny Cedeno is certainly available -- to back up starter Jhonny Peralta. The Indians are listening to offers for Westbrook or veteran Paul Byrd.

Westbrook, 29, is appealing because he will earn $6.1 million and is a top-of-the-rotation pitcher who went 15-10 with a 4.17 ERA in 32 starts last season.